International Business
- MSc
- Video

Overview

Summary

This programme will enable students to acquire a knowledge and understanding of the political, social and cultural aspects of different trade blocs, particularly the European Union, Asia and the USA.

This online programme is designed to provide a coherent academic progression for students who will explore the overall environment in which international business takes place. Core management techniques are analysed from varying perspectives to understand their application on an international scale.

The unique selling point of this programme is the richness from the diverse student base which progresses through this programme of study. Sharing experiences from varied cultural, economic and employment backgrounds is invaluable.

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About this course

About

This programme will enable students to acquire a knowledge and understanding of the political, social and cultural aspects of different trade blocs, particularly the European Union, Asia and the USA.

This online programme is designed to provide a coherent academic progression for students who will explore the overall environment in which international business takes place. Core management techniques are analysed from varying perspectives to understand their application on an international scale.

The unique selling point of this programme is the richness that evident from the diverse student base which progresses through this programme of study. Sharing experiences from varied cultural, economic and employment backgrounds is invaluable.

Attendance

Students are expected to regularly login and participate in online discussions and collaborate with their peers and tutors.

There are no formal/fixed patterns of "attendance" as this is a fully online programme, with NO physical attendance required.

PT: MSc 2 calendar year (September start) or three academic years.

Start dates

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Year one

Global Strategy

Year: 1

Status: C

This module focuses primarily on the strategic management of enterprises engaged in international business. Different perspectives, such as core competencies and country-based sources, are analysed to assess competitive positions and then to formulate strategies. Key international theories are presented and applied through case study analysis and discussions. Students are required to submit a group assignment and an individual assignment.

International HRM

Year: 1

Status: C

In the competitive global economy, human resources are arguably an organisation's main source of competitive advantage. This module introduces students to the concept of managing global talent, regarded as an important strategic area of business activity. Learning will be by teaching, discussion and independent study. Assessment is by coursework only.

Year two

The Digital Landscape

Year: 2

Status: C

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of e-business and its practical application in a range of different contexts. On successful completion of this module students will have an in-depth knowledge of e-business; critically evaluate current practice on creating and managing an e-business; understand the implications of e-business for international business; and analyse how an organisation can apply e-business technologies to support its competitive strategy in an international business context.

Applied Research Skills

Year: 2

Status: C

This module provides students with an adequate knowledge of research skills and techniques. An in-depth understanding of the key principles of research design and strategy, including the process of formulating researchable problems will also enable students to prepare a successful project proposal and equip them with the necessary skills to complete the Dissertation or Applied Research Project in Semester 3.

International Entrepreneurship

Year: 2

Status: C

This module provides students with an appreciation of the growing importance of international entrepreneurship, and rapid internationalization by small firms. It develops appropriate enterprise knowledge and skills among students to foster international entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviour. A variety of teaching methods are used including, formal lectures/tutorials, group and individual work, guest lectures, and so on. This module will assist students to develop their personal international entrepreneurial effectiveness and to think creatively with regard to problem solving and possible future scenarios, as well as assist them on their global citizenship journey.

International Marketing

Year: 2

Status: C

This module explores the complexity of forces that underpin the international marketing decisions made by organisations. In particular, it aims to understand the impact of these forces on the activities of organizations, and the nature of the decisions that organizations must take if they are to survive and prosper in a dynamic international marketing environment. . The module will focus on the regional, national and global contexts and provide students with practical and academic knowledge where they will have an opportunity to showcase their ability to interpret, synthesise, apply and evaluate knowledge and understanding. In addition, this module will allow students to become critical thinkers in this contemporary and growing business discipline and better understand the complexities, challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed, embraced and capitalised upon.

Year three

International Finance

Year: 3

Status: C

The module aims to provide students with an overview of financial theory and techniques required within the context of entrepreneurship and managerial decision-making in the international business environment.

Global Business in Context

Year: 3

Status: C

Businesses now operate in a globalised, highly connected multi-layered business environment, where global, regional and local firms are increasingly intertwined. Such an environment presents many challenges, and is typified by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity. As the leaders/managers and decision makers of the future, this module will help students understand key concepts and current trends in Global Business, prepare for work in multi-layered environments, and to understand the need for flexibility and adaptability, both in the domestic and regional and global contexts.

Dissertation

Status: O

Year: 3

This module is optional

The Masters Dissertation enables students to carry out research on a chosen topic within the domain of international business. Academic supervisors are allocated who provide advice and guidance to students throughout this process. On successful completion of their 15,000-word Dissertation students will be awarded their MSc in International Business.

Applied Research Project

Status: O

Year: 3

This module is optional

The Applied Research Project enables students to apply the theoretical concepts encountered on the MSc International Business program to a real-life management issue. In doing so, they choose and justify appropriate research methodologies, gather data and make conclusions and recommendations to anorganisation.

Entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must:

(a) have gained

a second class honours degree or better from a university of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, or from a recognised national awarding body or from an institution or another country which has been recognised as being of an equivalent standard or

(b) provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent); the minimum English language requirements for non-native English speakers, are IELTS 6.0 (with no contributing band at less than 5.5).

or, as an alternative to (a) (i) or (a) (ii) and/or (b):

(c) in exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities (including subject-specific outcomes, as determined by the Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicantsThe minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Teaching and learning assessment

This Master's in International Business by E-Learning programme, offers various methods of on-line teaching and learning to address the needs of industry and the economy in today's fast-changing world. Additionally, there are two exit points from this master's - at Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma levels.

Studying and interacting with students and academic staff in an international setting creates a network of contacts and links to local knowledge on an international stage. This master's degree offers directed tutor and peer learning, providing guidance and support throughout the entire programme, in addition to technical assistance.

Assessment will be 100% coursework assessed. Typically this will include two formal written assignments per "taught" modules, plus contributions to regular discussion boards.

Exemptions and transferability

Studies pursued and examinations passed in respect of other qualifications awarded by Ulster University or by another university or other educational institution, or evidence from the accreditation of prior experiential learning, may be accepted as exempting candidates from part of the programme provided that:

They shall register as students of the University for modules amounting to at least the final third of the credit value of the award at the highest level. If students are exiting with the PgDip or PgCert, they need to have registered as students of the University for modules amounting to at least the final 50% of the credit value of the award at the highest level. exemption is not permitted from the International Management or International Business Environment modules, as these are core modules within the programme. Nor will the Dissertation module be exempted, due to the need to complete at least 50% of the credit value at the MSc level.

Careers & opportunities

Career options

Student and employer needs are reflected in the development of this programme and evidenced in the career destinations and further development of our graduates. The nature of the provision is such that it equips individuals for employment in a wide range of international roles within the public and private sectors and a significant number of graduates are successful in gaining promotion in their chosen fields or alter their career paths following completion of their programme of study.

A sample of graduate employers includes:

Marriott Hotel Group

PWC

Deloitte

Laterooms.com

Halfords

Smile Communications

The European Space Agency

A number of graduates from these programmes have also undertaken their doctoral studies, both within Ulster University and beyond.

Start dates

Fees and funding

Fees (total cost)

Important notice - fees information
Fees illustrated are based on 18/19 entry and are subject to an annual increase. Correct at the time of publishing. Terms and conditions apply. Additional mandatory costs are highlighted where they are known in advance. There are other costs associated with university study.
Visit our Fees pages for full details of fees

Scholarships, awards and prizes

Additional mandatory costs

Tuition fees and costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges), and normal living are a part of university life.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses we make every effort to highlight them. These may include residential visits, field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering) inoculations, security checks, computer equipment, uniforms, professional memberships etc.

We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free wifi is also available on each of the campuses.

There will be some additional costs to being a student which cannot be itemised and these will be different for each student. You may choose to purchase your own textbooks and course materials or prefer your own computer and software. Printing and binding may also be required. There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. Additional costs vary from course to course.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs as well as tuition fees.

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Testimonials

Graduate of MSc International Business: Ursula Henderson

Multi Property Director of Human Resources, for Marriott International (which has 3500 hotels in 65+ countries)

Why this programme of study?

I wanted career advancement and knew I needed a different perspective. I looked at many courses and this one ticked all the boxes - flexible, working remotely, challenging and covered both international businesses and international human resources. Working for Marriott International across three continents in some very diverse environments, I needed to develop my strategic outlook and hoped to obtain an even better understanding of how changes in one country can affect business in another. I wanted to be able to make better business decisions and believed that this masters offered the appropriate level of education to build upon my achievements and further enhance my career.

I wanted the security of a quality-assured qualification from a renowned university but also wanted to be comfortable that the distance learning delivery mode would offer similar content to a classroom-based course. Both of these requirements were fulfilled in this MSc International Business programme.

Diverse student base and ongoing support

I found the online discussions boards where I could contact others students and tutors, to ask questions and read their comments, immensely supportive, interesting and inclusive. The diverse range of people on the programme was definitely positive.

Career Benefits since Graduation

I have already utilised this qualification in my job, as the company is expanding in the UK and Europe, with a significant on recruitment and diversity policies. This programme has helped me to devise suitable strategies to develop talent moving into international management positions and to work with individual hotels to ensure international transfers are seamless. Additionally, it has also raised my profile within the company and enabled me to take on additional projects

Overall experience with the Ulster Business School

It has been very good. I have enjoyed working with the lecturers, some were more challenging than others and occasionally it was difficult to see why we needed to complete some tasks, such as a group assignment, when we were all working in different time zones, but ultimately I would recommend the Ulster University.